Landscape Code | Planning and Zoning - City of Port St. Lucie

CHAPTER 153: LANDSCAPE CODE; TREE PROTECTION AND
PRESERVATION; LAND CLEARING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
LANDSCAPING
153.01 Purpose and Intent .............................................................................................. 2
153.02 Definitions............................................................................................................2
153.03 Use of Landscaping for Site Development Area.................................................. 5
153.04 Landscaping Requirements................................................................................. 6
153.05 More Stringent Requirements May Be Required................................................ 24
153.06 Submission of Landscaping Plan; Approved Prior to Enactment........................ 24
153.07 City Planning; Enforcement................................................................................ 26
153.08 Contracting with Outside Agencies..................................................................... 27
153.09 Variances & Administrative Variances................................................................ 27
153.10 Exception to Landscaping Requirements ........................................................... 27
153.11 Administrative Reviews of a Landscape Plan..................................................... 27
153.12 Exemption or Modification to Landscape Buffer Wall Requirement.................... 28
TREE PROTECTION AND PRESERVATION
153.13 Legislative Intent ................................................................................................ 28
153.14 Permit Required for Tree Removal..................................................................... 29
153.15 Permit Procedure and Criteria for Issuing Permits ............................................. 30
153.16 Tree Protection and Mitigation............................................................................ 31
153.17 Appeal and Penalties ......................................................................................... 33
153.18 Alternative Compliance ...................................................................................... 33
153.19 Reserved
LAND CLEARING
153.20 Legislative Intent ................................................................................................ 34
153.21 Definitions........................................................................................................... 34
153.22 General Requirements ....................................................................................... 35
153.23 Land Clearing Plan and Permit........................................................................... 37
153.24 Land Clearing Permit.......................................................................................... 38
153.25 Rights of Site Plan Review Committee to Impose Permit Conditions ................. 39
153.26 Appeal of Decisions of Committee ..................................................................... 39
153.27 Environmental Assessment................................................................................ 40
153.28 Penalty ............................................................................................................... 40
Appendix A: Required Wall Plan – Adjacent to a Right-of-Way
Appendix B: Required Wall Elevation Detail – Adjacent to a Right-of-Way
Appendix C: City of Port St. Lucie Approved Tree List
Appendix D: Tree Protection Barrier Detail Revised 2/14/2012 3:18 PM
1

CHAPTER 153: LANDSCAPE AND LAND CLEARING CODE
§ 153.01 PURPOSE AND INTENT
This subchapter is intended to improve and protect the environment and the value and the
character of the community and properties by providing for the installation and maintenance of
landscaping and the preservation of natural plant growth. The provision for landscaping and the
retention of natural plant growth reduces erosion, provides shade, buffers incompatible uses, aids in
urban temperature control, and improves the aesthetic quality of a community and properties,
thereby promoting the public health, safety, and general welfare. This chapter requires specific
water conservation measures including the preservation of native vegetation for landscaping
purposes, where applicable, to minimize water use, conserve energy, limit nutrient loading to
surface waters, and provide mature vegetation for aesthetics, shade and wildlife habitat. The
specific objectives of these regulations are to: preserve and protect existing vegetation, promote
water conservation, and encourage greater use of native cold-tolerant and drought-tolerant
landscape material.
§ 153.02 DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context
clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ABUT. Properties which are either contiguous or separated by a road or drainage right-ofway.
ACCESSWAY. The principal means of ingress and egress to a parcel from a public or
private street right-of-way.
ARCHITECTURAL WALL. A wall designed to complement adjacent development
consisting of masonry block with stucco, fluted block, a finished designer block, poured
concrete, or pre-cast concrete with a treatment on top such as a cornice, tile band, or similar
accent. A pre-cast concrete wall shall be comparable in visual quality to a block wall. For
typical layout and details, see Appendices A and B located at the end of this chapter.
CALIPER The diameter of the trunk measured 6 inches above the ground (up to and
including 4 inch caliper size), and 12 inches above the ground for larger sizes.
CANOPY. The area consisting of a tree's branches in all directions from its trunk, the outer
edge of which is the dripline.
2

CLEAR TRUNK HEIGHT (CT). The height of a tree measured from the ground to the
bottom of the canopy.
COMMERCIAL AREA. Any area zoned commercial or office, including commercial or office
areas designated in an approved PUD development plan.
DIAMETER BREAST HEIGHT (DBH). The diameter of a tree trunk measured at 4.5 feet
above grade. In the case of multi-stemmed trees, the D.B.H. shall be measured at 4.5 feet
above grade on each stem and added together to count as one tree.
DRIPLINE. An imaginary vertical line extending from the outermost circumference of the
branches of a tree to the ground.
EVERGREEN. Foliage that remains green or living throughout the year, non-deciduous.
FRONTAGE. Linear distance measured along abutting road rights-of-way.
GROUND COVER. Low growing plants planted in such a manner as to form a continuous
cover over the ground.
INDUSTRIAL AREA. Any area zoned industrial, including areas designated for industrial
use in an approved PUD development plan.
LANDSCAPE ISLAND. An area designated for landscaping located at the end of a parking
bay that is typically 10 to 15 feet in width.
LANDSCAPE STRIP. A strip of land designated for landscaping.
LANDSCAPE BUFFER STRIP. A strip of land designated to provide a visual buffer between
abutting properties that consists of landscaping and an architectural wall.
LANDSCAPING. Material such as, but not limited to, grass, ground covers, shrubs, vines,
hedges, trees, or palms; and nonliving durable material commonly used in landscaping, such
as, but not limited to, rocks, pebbles, sand, walls, or fences, but excluding paving.
MULCH. Nonliving, small, aggregate material such as gravel, rock, pebbles, bark, or pine
needles spread over exposed soil.
MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL / INSTITUTIONAL AREAS. Any area zoned multi-family
residential or institutional, including areas designated for multifamily/ institutional uses in an
approved PUD development plan.
OFF-STREET PARKING AREA. Any area except a public or private right-of-way used for
the purpose of parking, storing or display of vehicles, boats, trailers and mobile homes,
including used car lots, but not including parking structures or garages.
OPEN LOT STORAGE AREA. An area which is not enclosed by a permanent structure or
wall where inoperative vehicles, scrap metal, scrap lumber, building materials, machinery,
machinery parts, or other similar items are customarily sold or stored.
3

OPEN SPACE AREA. Any open space, park, or public or private spaces not committed to
preservation or drainage uses.
OTHER VEHICULAR USE AREAS. All land upon which vehicles traverse the property as a
function of the primary uses.
PARKING BAY. A single alignment of 12 or fewer parking spaces that is terminated at each
end with a landscape island.
PLANTING AREA. Any area designated for landscape planting having a minimum area of
ten square feet and having a minimum dimension of 3 feet; except that wherever a tree shall
be planted, a minimum area of 25 square feet, with a minimum dimension of at least five feet.
PROTECTED TREE. Any tree having a D.B.H. of 12 inches or greater or any native palm
with a minimum clear trunk of ten (10) feet or greater. The term “protected tree” shall also
apply to any replacement tree and any non-exempt tree that is represented in a planning
document for the purposes of securing an approved building permit, clearing permit, or
certificate of occupancy. This excludes the following:
1. Non-native fruit trees cultivated or grown for the specific purpose of producing edible
fruit, including, but not limited to: mangos, avocados, or species of citrus.
2. Non-native invasive or undesirable plants listed under Section 153.04(D)(7)(c).
3. All non-native trees in the palm family.
PUD-PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT. A land area under unified control which is planned
and programmed in a single development operation or in a series of prescheduled phases
according to an officially approved final development plan.
REPLACEMENT TREE shall mean any tree planted or preserved as a condition of approval
of a tree removal permit or as may be required to meet the conditions of this chapter.
RIGHT-OF-WAY. Includes any public or private street or drainage canal right-of-way. In
addition, other properties that are 50 feet or more in width that support infrastructure or utility
uses such as, but not limited to, electric power lines and swales shall also be considered a
right-of-way.
ROOT PROTECTION ZONE. The pervious area beneath a tree centered on the trunk. For
preserved trees, this means the area beneath the drip line of the tree. Root protection zones
that include existing impervious area(s) not adversely affecting the viability of the tree, may
be acceptable.
SPREAD means the crown diameter measured by taking the average of the widest branch
spread and the branch spread perpendicular to it.
SHRUBS. Any low, self-supporting, multi-stemmed evergreen.
SIGHT DISTANCE TRIANGLE. See Section 158.204 of the Zoning Code for visibility at
intersections in Zoning Districts.
SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL AREA. Any portion of the city divided into lots intended to
contain a single dwelling unit designed for occupancy by one family.
4

TOWNHOUSE means a single-family dwelling unit constructed in a series or group of
attached units with property lines separating such units.
TREE. Any self-supporting, woody plant having at least one well-defined stem that will gain
a minimum height of 20 feet when mature.
TREE PROTECTION BARRIER. A suitable structure as installed as close as possible to
the perimeter of the tree protection area prior to construction, land clearing, or demolition
(See Appendix D - Tree Protection Barrier Detail).
VINES. Any of a group of woody or herbaceous plants which may climb by twining, by
means of aerial rootlets or tendrils, or which may simply sprawl over the ground.
XERISCAPE. A landscaping method that maximizes the conservation of water by the use of
site-appropriate plants, proper mulches, and an efficient watering system.
§153.03 USE OF LANDSCAPING FOR SITE DEVELOPMENT AREA
The use of landscaping shall be required for all site development as follows:
(A) Commercial Areas. For site development in commercial areas, landscaping shall be
placed as described in §153.04 herein, except §153.04 (M).
(B) Multi-family Residential/Institutional Areas. Sites developed for multi-family,
institutional, and public buildings shall have landscaping installed in accordance with the
requirements described in §153.04 herein, except §153.04(H) and §153.04(M). Note: Platted
townhouse lots shall be subject to the requirements of § 153.04(M). A landscape strip that is at
least 10 feet in depth shall be provided between buildings and parking lots, sidewalks, and vehicular
use areas. This area is to be planted with grass, ground cover, shrubs, and trees. See §153.04(N)
for minimum required quantity.
(C) Industrial Areas. Sites developed in industrial areas shall have landscaping installed in
accordance with the requirements of §153.04 herein, except §§153.04(M), 153.04(I)3, 153.04(J),
and 153.04(N):
(1) Inner Courtyards. Warehouse and/or industrial complexes erected with an inner
court enclosed by walls or buildings shall not be required to landscape the inner court
storage area.
(2) Site Perimeter Landscaping. A landscape strip at least ten feet in depth shall
be located adjacent to all rights-of-way and abutting properties, unless indicated
otherwise. Along a street right-of-way, one tree shall be provided for each 30 linear
feet of frontage, or fractional part thereof. Trees may be placed in any arrangement
within the landscape strip provided that the spacing between tree trunks is no greater
than 50 feet. A continuous hedge shall extend the length of the landscape strip. One
shrub shall be required for each 2 linear feet and the shrubs shall be at least 24
inches in height at the time of planting. The remainder of the landscape strip shall be
planted with grass, ground cover, shrubs, and other landscape treatment, excluding
paving. Landscape strips not located adjacent to a street right-of-way shall have at
least one tree for every 60 linear feet, or fractional part thereof, unless indicated
5

otherwise. A landscape strip located around an Open Lot Storage Area shall provide
one tree for every 30 linear feet, or fractional part thereof. Where an industrial use is
located next to a commercial, office, or institutional use, a continuous hedge shall
also be provided within the side and rear perimeter landscape strip, unless there is an
existing hedge located along the perimeter of the adjacent property. Parking lot
perimeter landscape strip requirements shall take precedence where a parking lot is
located adjacent to a perimeter landscape strip.
(3) Parking Lot Interior Landscape Islands. Parking lot interior landscape islands
are to be provided unless the required shade trees are mitigated on site and are
depicted on the landscape plan.
(D) Planned Unit Development (PUD). If a landscape plan is approved for a PUD project,
then the PUD landscape plan will be enforced in lieu of the requirements of this subchapter.
(E) Single-Family Residential Areas. For site development in single-family residential
areas, landscaping shall be installed in accordance with §153.04(M), §153.04(B)(3). See Chapter
97, Appendix A, for minimum sod area requirements.
(F) Administrative amendments to approved Site Plans pursuant to §158.237(K) shall not be
required to provide a landscape plan unless the proposed amendment would
substantially affect the approved landscape plan.
§ 153.04 LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
To ensure that the landscaping provided is adequate to meet the intent of this subchapter, the
following requirements are specified:
(A) Xeriscape Landscape Design Principles. Xeriscape landscaping means a type of
quality landscaping that conserves water and protects the environment by using site appropriate
plants, an efficient watering system, proper planning and design, soil analysis, practical use of turf,
the use of mulches, and proper maintenance. The intent is to establish and maintain a healthy
landscape by matching the right plants with existing site conditions to minimize the use of additional
resources, such as water, fertilizer, and pesticides.
(1) Natural Landscapes. Landscape designs should incorporate and enhance
existing natural landscapes and existing specimen trees and native vegetation
(including canopy, understory, and ground cover). Particular care should be
given to preserve intact natural landscapes.
(2) Use of Native and Drought Resistant Plants. Landscape designs should feature
native and/or related plant species, to take advantage of the adaptability of native
plants to local environmental conditions. Landscape designs should utilize
drought tolerant plant materials to the maximum extent feasible. The use of
drought tolerant plants should enrich the existing landscape character, conserve
water and energy, and provide as pleasant and varied a visual appearance as
plants that require more water.
6

(B) Installation.
(1) Planting Practices. All landscaping shall be installed in a sound, workmanlike
manner and according to accepted good planting practice with the quality of plant
materials as hereinafter described. All elements of landscaping shall be installed so
as to meet any other applicable ordinances. Trees and plants used in a required
landscape design shall be cold-tolerant, drought-tolerant, or appropriate for the
environmental setting in which they are to be planted. The “Waterwise South Florida
Landscapes” plant guide, published by the South Florida Water Management District,
as amended, should be used to determine appropriate vegetation.
(2) Staking. All balled and burlapped trees and palms shall be staked. Trees and
palms shall be staked until the roots have become established for a period typically
between 6 months and 1 year or as specified by a landscape architect.
(3) Easement and Utility Area Landscaping. No landscaping shall be planted in
such a manner as to adversely affect drainage or utility easements.
(a) Trees with a maximum mature height great enough to interfere with
overhead power lines shall not be planted below overhead power lines. Such
trees with a maximum mature height less than the height of the overhead
power line shall be selected from Appendix C: City of Port St. Lucie Approved
Tree List, Type B Trees or as required in §153.04(F)(2) for parcels located
along Port St. Lucie Boulevard. No tree shall be planted within 10 feet of any
existing utility pole, guy wire, or pad mounted transformer (See FP&L’s
publication “Plant the Right Tree in the Right Place” for placement and
maintenance requirements.).
(b) All landscaping within Port St. Lucie Utility Systems Department
(PSLUSD) utility easements shall comply with PSLUSD technical
specifications, policies, and codes.
(c) Trees shall not be planted within ten (10) feet of any PSLUSD
underground infrastructure.
(d) In locations where the perimeter landscape buffers must be designed to
be located in utility easements due to site constraints, the following list of
trees, palm trees and shrubs shall be used in these areas to meet the
landscape buffer requirements. Trees and palm trees may be planted not less
than seven (7) feet from the underground PSLUSD infrastructure. The
remainder of the landscape strip shall be planted with grass and ground
cover.
Trees
Pigeon Plum Coccoloba diversifolia
Yaupon Holly Ilex vomitoria
Weeping Holly Ilex vomitoria 'Pendula'
Crape Myrtle Lagerstroemia indica
Japanese Privet Tree Ligustrum japonicum
Wax Myrtle Myrica cerifera
7

Simpson's Stopper Myrcianthes fragrans
Jerusalem Thorn Parkinsonia aculeate
Tallowwood Plum Ximenia Americana
Wild Lime Zanthoxylum fagara
Palm Trees:
Chinese Fan Palm Livistona chinensis
European Fan Palm Chamaerops humilis
Windmill Palm Trachycarpus fortunei
Pindo Palm Butia capitata
Ponytail Palm Beaucarnea recurvata
Florida Thatch Palm Thrinax radiata
Shrubs
American Beautyberry Callicarpa americana L.
Apple, seven year Casasia clusiifolia
Boxthorn (Severinia buxifolia)
Boxwood (Buxus microphylla)
Buttonbush Cephalanthus occidentalis
Cardboard Palm Zamia maritima
Christmas Berry (Lycium carolinianum)
Coco Plum (Chrysobalanus icaco)
Coontie (Zamia floridana)
Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii)
Dwarf Palmetto Sabal minor
Dwarf Poinciana Caesalpinia pulcherrima
Dwarf Schefflera (Schefflera arboricola)
Dwarf Yaupon (Ilex vomitoria, ‘Stokes Dwarf’ or ‘Nana’)
Fakahatchee Grass (Tripsacum suspensum)
Firebush (Hamelia patens)
Firethorn, Red (Pyracantha coccinea)
Florida Privet (Forestiera segregate)
Glossy abelia (Abelia x grandiflora)
Golden Dewdrop (Duranta erecta)
Indian Hawthorne (Raphiolipis indica)
Jasmine, primrose (Jasminum mesnyi)
Juniper, Chinese (Juniperus chinensis)
Juniper, Pftizer (Juniperus chinensis 'Pftizeriana')
Lyonia, Rusty (Lyonia ferruginea)
Macho Fern (Nephrolepis biserrata)
Mound Lily (Yucca gloriosa)
Myrsine (Rapanea punctata)
Oleander (Nerium oleander)
Pampas Grass (Cortaderia selloana)
Pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira)
Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata)
Sand Cordgrass (Spartina bakeri)
Sandankwa Viburnum (Viburnum suspensum)
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
Star Jasmine (Jasminum nititdum)
Sweet Viburnum (Viburnum odoratissimum)
8

Sea Oxeye Daisy (Borrichia arborescens)
Spanish Bayonet (Yucca aloifolia)
Texas Sage (Leucophyllum frutescens)
Turk's-cap (Malvaviscus arboreus)
Walter's Viburnum (Viburnum obovatum)
Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera)
Wild Olive (Osmanthus americanus)
(4) Certification by Landscape Architect. The landscape architect shall certify in
writing to the Director of Planning and Zoning that the landscaping and irrigation have
been installed in accordance with the landscaping and irrigation plans approved by
the Site Plan Review Committee. No certificates of occupancy or similar
authorization will be issued unless the certification has been received verifying the
landscaping and irrigation meet the requirements provided herein, and are in
conformance with the approved landscape and irrigation plans for the project. This
requirement shall not apply to single-family homes.
(C) Maintenance.
(1) Responsibility. The owner, tenant, and their agent, if any, shall be jointly and
severally responsible for the maintenance of all landscaping which shall be
maintained in good condition so as to present a healthy, neat, and orderly
appearance at all times and shall be kept free from refuse and debris. Maintenance
shall include the replacement of all dead plant material and the removal of all evasive
and exotic plant material.
(2) Irrigation. All sodded and planted areas shall be provided with an irrigation
system except for Xeriscape areas. Xeriscape areas must have a readily available
water supply to provide temporary irrigation until plantings are established. Xeriscape
areas must be planted with approved drought tolerant species (See species denoted
as drought tolerant * in Appendix C: City of Port St. Lucie Approved Tree List and the
SFWMD “Waterwise South Florida Landscapes” plant guide). A Xeriscape plan may be
approved by the Site Plan Review Committee when the applicant can assure the
health and survivability of all landscaping plant materials. Bahia grass is considered
xeriscape material.
(3) Nonconformance.
(a) If at any time after issuance of a certificate of occupancy the landscaping
of a development is found to be in nonconformance, the Planning and Zoning
Department shall issue notice to the owner, tenant, and/or agent that action is
required to comply with this subchapter and the owner, tenant, and/or agent
shall have 30 days to restore the landscaping as required. Failure to comply
will result in a Code Enforcement Board hearing.
(b) Permitted landscaping existing on the effective date of this subchapter
shall be maintained as originally permitted. Replacement trees and other
plants must, however, meet the requirement of this subchapter.
9

(4) Pruning and Topping. Pruning restrictions shall not apply for trees located
under power lines. Trees shall be pruned only as necessary to promote healthy
growth. Trees shall be allowed to attain their normal size and shall not be severely
pruned or "hatracked" in order to permanently maintain growth at a reduced height.
Trees may be periodically pruned or thinned in order to reduce leaf mass in
preparation for tropical storms. All pruning shall be accomplished in accordance with
the National Arborist's Standards.
(5) Walls and Fences. All walls and fencing shall be maintained in good condition
so as to present a neat, and orderly appearance at all times and shall be kept free
from mildew and graffiti.
(D) Plant Materials.
(1) Quality. Plant material used in conformance with the provisions of this
subchapter shall conform to the most recent standards for Florida No. 1 or better as
given in "Grades and Standards for Nursery Plants", State of Florida, Department of
Agriculture, Tallahassee, or equal thereto. Plant materials which are known to be
intolerant of paving environments or temperature below 32° F or 0° C, or whose
physical characteristics may be injurious to the public or which produce a quantity
and/or quality of debris so as to present maintenance difficulties shall not be specified
for use under this subchapter.
(2) Existing Plant Material. Developers and/or land owners are encouraged to
utilize healthy, acceptable plant material existing on a site prior to its development
since this plant material is known to adapt to soil and climate conditions that occur in
the city area. This existing plant material may be used in part or in whole to meet the
intent of this section provided it is of a quality comparable to Florida No. 1 as given in
"Grade and Standards for Nursery Plants", State of Florida, Department of
Agriculture, Tallahassee. Trees to be preserved shall be protected from construction
damage. Protection should include barricades erected around the dripline, or other
similar separation, of the tree during the entire construction process.
(3) Ground Cover. Ground covers, other than grass, shall be planted in such a
manner as to present a finished appearance and a reasonably complete coverage
within four months after planting. Ten percent (10%) of the groundcover landscaping
shall consist of flowering groundcover. Groundcover shall be selected from the
“Waterwise South Florida Landscapes” plant guide, published by the South Florida
Water Management District, as amended.
(4) Lawn Grass. Grass areas shall be planted in species normally grown as
permanent lawns in the county. Limit use of sod to a maximum of 50% of site
landscaping. Because of their drought tolerant resistant characteristics, it is
recommended that Bahia grass and common Bermuda grass be used. Use of
drought tolerant ground cover instead of lawn and turf grass is encouraged. The use
of St. Augustine grass is strongly discouraged.
(5) Shrubs and Hedges. Shrubs shall be a minimum of two feet in height when
measured immediately after planting. When used for screening purposes they shall
be spaced a maximum of twenty-four inches on center and shall be maintained so as
to form a continuous, unbroken, solid screen within a maximum of one year after time
10

of planting. If wider growing plants are used, spacing may be increased, but should
provide a full appearance with adjacent plants touching each other. Required shrubs
shall be selected from the “Waterwise South Florida Landscapes” plant guide,
published by the South Florida Water Management District, as amended. Saw
Palmetto can have a minimum size of 12 inches and be spaced a maximum of thirtysix
inches on center. At least 25% of all shrubs shall be native species.
(6) Synthetic Plants. Synthetic or artificial material in the form of trees, shrubs,
ground cover, vines, or artificial turf shall not be used in lieu of plant requirements in
this section.
(7) Trees.
(a) Trees shall be a species having an average mature spread of crown
greater than 20 feet. Trees shall have a trunk that is maintained in a clean
condition with over five feet of clear wood (no branches). Trees having an
average mature spread of crown less than 20 feet may be arranged in
groupings so as to create the equivalent of a 20-foot crown spread; however,
the grouping or groupings shall be counted as one tree.
(b) Tree species shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet overall height when
planted with a minimum five (5) foot crown spread. At planting, the trees shall
have a caliper of at least 2.5 inches. Palm trees shall have a minimum clear
trunk height of ten (10) feet except for Canary Island Date Palm, Edible Date
Palm, and Bismark Palm. Canary Island Date Palm, Edible Date Palm, and
Bismark Palm shall have a minimum clear trunk height of six (6) feet. For the
requirements of Section 153.04(L) “Landscaping around Building Façade”, the
minimum height may be reduced to eight (8) feet. Groups of smaller trees
may be approved by the Site Plan Review Committee. Required trees shall
be selected from Appendix C: City of Port St. Lucie Approved Tree List
located at the end of this chapter. Trees from the “Waterwise South Florida
Landscapes” plant guide, published by the South Florida Water Management
District, may be substituted for the trees listed in Appendix C provided they
are of the appropriate USDA plant hardiness zone, ecological setting, and
conform to the requirements of §153.04(D)(7)(a). Substitutions do not apply to
certain portions of this chapter which identify specific planting requirements.
(c) None of the following trees shall be used to meet the requirements of this
section: Melaleuca leucadendra (Punk Tree), Schinus terebinthefolius
(Brazilian Pepper), Casuarina species (Australian Pine), Acacia auriculiformis
(Earleaf Acacia), Albezia lebbeck (Woman’s Tongue), Bishofia javanica
(Bishofia/Toog), Brassaia actinophylla (Schefflera), Enterolobium cyclocarpum
(Ear Pod Tree), Eucalyptus spp. (Eucalyptus), Grevillia robusta (Silk Oak),
and Sapium sebiferum (Chinese Tallow), Araucaria heterophylla (Norfolk
Island Pine), Syzygium cumini (Java Plum), Melia azedarach (Chinaberry),
Dalbergia sissoo (Rosewood), and Cupianopsis anacardiodes (Carrotwood).
(d) No more than twenty-five (25)% of the required trees may be palm trees.
(e) Use of native species shall be encouraged. At least 50% of all required
trees shall be a native species. At least 25% of all shrubs shall be native
species.
11

(f) At least 20% of the required trees shall be flowering trees.
(g) At least 75% of the trees located within landscape islands shall be
evergreen shade trees. See Appendix C: City of Port St. Lucie Approved Tree
List located at the end of this chapter.
(h) When more than ten (10) trees are required to be planted to meet the
requirements of this Code, a mix of species shall be provided. The minimum
number of species to be planted is indicated in the following table. When a
mix of species is required, no single species shall exceed a 2 to 1 ratio
relative to all other individual species.
Required Tree Species Mix
Number of Trees Minimum Number of
Required Species
11--20 2
21--30 3
31--40 4
41+ 5
(i) Trees of species whose roots are known to cause damage to public
roadways, utilities, or other public works shall not be planted closer than 10
feet to those public works.
(j) Landscape guidelines which preempt this ordinance may be adopted by
the City Council for certain areas.
(k) In those instances where a tree(s) is planted closer than five (5) feet from
a street, sidewalk, or structure, a root barrier(s) shall be installed. Root
barriers for trees shall be installed along the edge of structure or paving or
curb. The root barrier shall be a minimum of twenty-four (24) inches deep, but
depending on the size, location, and species of tree to be planted, a larger
barrier may be required. The root barrier shall be installed with twenty (20)
linear feet, centered from the trunk, for large trees and fifteen (15) linear feet
for smaller trees. All root barriers shall be linear.
(8) Tree Credits
(a) To encourage the preservation of trees, existing trees which are retained
and preserved may be substituted for any of the trees required by the
landscaping requirements of this chapter or the tree preservation
requirements of this chapter. Applicants must incorporate a tree preservation
plan into the proposed landscape plan to receive tree credits. This additional
plan must explain the preservation, maintenance, placement, and
transplanting techniques used for all trees to be considered for credit. A tree
protection barrier (See Appendix D – Tree Protection Barrier Detail) shall be
placed around all trees to be preserved prior to any land preparation or
12

construction of structures or other improvements. Both plans must be
included with an application for a site plan, subdivision plan, or building
permit. Single family lot owners shall place a tree protection barrier around all
trees to be preserved to receive tree credits.
(b) The tree(s) shall be in good health and free of pests, disease, or injury.
(c) The tree(s) shall count toward the tree replacement requirements for a
Tree Removal Permit, if applicable, or required landscaping for site plan,
subdivision, or PUD rezoning approval or residential development. The tree(s)
shall not count toward both requirements simultaneously.
(d) Credit ratio: Preserved/relocated native trees shall be credited for required
trees, pursuant to the following ratio:
D.B.H. of Preserved Tree Total Tree Credits
2-6 inches 1 tree
7-12 inches 2 trees
13-18 inches 3 trees
19 and above 4 trees
(e) Trees ineligible for credit ratio: No credit shall be granted for trees:
1. Classified as prohibited.
2. Dead, dying, diseased or insect infested, damaged or impacted
trees.
(9) Vines. Vines shall be a minimum of 30 inches in height immediately after planting
and may be used in conjunction with fences, screens, or walls to meet physical
barrier requirements as specified.
(E) Water Efficient Landscaping.
(1) All developments for which landscaping is required shall incorporate the principles
of waterwise landscaping into the landscaping design based on the following
requirements, in addition to the general landscape requirements of this chapter.
(a) A minimum of fifty (50) percent of each required planting material shall be
drought tolerant as recognized as drought tolerant (*) in Appendix C: City of
Port St. Lucie Approved Tree List and in the “Waterwise South Florida
Landscapes” plant guide, published by the South Florida Water Management
District, as amended. Each type of required planting material, trees, shrubs, and
ground cover shall be calculated separately, and each type shall meet the
required percentage minimum.
(b) Plant materials shall be grouped in accordance with their respective water
and maintenance needs to provide for efficient irrigation. Plants with similar
water, soil, climate, sun, and light requirements shall be grouped together.
Proposed irrigation zones shall be shown on the landscaping plan.
(c) The use of sod/turf grass shall be limited to where it is most functional in the
landscape plan. Irrigated sod shall be considered a high water use zone.
Sod/turf grass shall be placed so that it can be irrigated using separate zones.
13

(2) Irrigation System Design Standards. Landscaped areas shall be irrigated to
maintain required plant materials in good and healthy condition. Xeriscape areas
must have a readily available water supply to provide temporary irrigation until
plantings are established. Natural areas and native vegetation left undisturbed by
development may be excluded from the irrigation system. The design plans for the
irrigation system shall be submitted with the required landscape plan for review and
approval by the Site Plan Review Committee. The required irrigation plan shall be
prepared by or under the landscape architect's authority and demonstrate compliance
with the following irrigation standards:
(a) All landscaped areas requiring irrigation shall be provided with a fully
automated irrigation system that provides 100 percent coverage with 100
percent overlap with a minimum design distribution uniformity (D.U.) of .70.
Temporary or minimal irrigation systems acceptable to Xeriscape practices
may be used when a Xeriscape plan has been approved by the Site Plan
Review Committee. These temporary systems must comply with the same
efficiency and design requirements as permanent systems.
(b) All non single-family residential irrigation systems shall consider the use of
a non-potable water supply such as reclaimed water, storm water, ground
water, or surface water, if such supply is available.
Automatic irrigation systems shall incorporate the following criteria:
i. Zoning - Irrigation systems shall be designed to ensure turf and
landscape areas are irrigated on separate zones. In addition, all
spray, rotor, and drip zones shall be zoned separately.
ii. All new trees shall have pressure compensating bubblers installed,
a minimum of one per tree. The bubblers shall be zoned
separately, when possible.
iii. Moisture sensor or rain gauge equipment shall be required on
automatic irrigation systems to avoid irrigation during periods of
sufficient rainfall and/or soil moisture – one per controller.
iv. Irrigation systems shall be designed to minimize overspray onto
paved surfaces, structures, and non-vegetated areas.
v. All irrigation systems shall be continuously maintained in working
order.
vi. Hydraulics – All irrigation designs must ensure mainline and lateral
line piping shall be sized to limit velocities to 5 feet per second
(fps), or less, and a maximum pressure variation with each zone
and within all mainline piping of 10% via the friction factor method.
vii. All spray heads and drip emitters must be pressure regulating and
have check valves. All rotors must have check valves and
pressure regulation is to be utilized, as required, to ensure proper
coverage and minimize misting.
viii. Water windows – all irrigation systems must be designed to be
able to irrigate the entire site in one ten (10) hour day, or less.
ix. Irrigation systems must be designed to be able to apply a peak
daily irrigation demand of .3 inches of water to each zone.
14

x. All irrigation system designs must meet or exceed those
requirements outlined as best design and/or management
practices by the Florida Irrigation Society (FIS), American Society
of Irrigation consultants (ASIC) and the Irrigation Association (IA).
xi.
(F) Site Perimeter Landscaping - Commercial, Office, Institutional, Multifamily, and
PUD Zoning. Necessary access ways from a right-of-way through all landscape strips shall be
permitted in order to utilize the parking or other vehicular use areas and these accessways may
be subtracted from the linear dimension used to determine the number of trees required.
(1) Development Located Adjacent to a Right-of-Way or to Another Property. A
landscape strip at least ten feet in depth shall be located adjacent to all rights-of-way
and abutting properties, unless indicated otherwise. One tree shall be provided for
each 30 linear feet of right-of-way or abutting property, or fractional part thereof.
Trees may be placed in any arrangement within the landscape strip provided that the
spacing between tree trunks is no greater than 50 feet. A continuous hedge shall
extend the length of the landscape strip. One shrub shall be required for each 2 linear
feet and the shrubs shall be at least 24 inches in height at the time of planting. The
remainder of the landscape strip shall be planted with grass, ground cover, shrubs, or
other landscape treatment, excluding paving. Where an adjacent site has been
developed and it has a landscape strip that has one tree for each 30 linear feet, or
fractional part thereof, the required trees may be placed in other areas of the site, in
addition to other required trees. If there is no space for additional trees in other areas
of the site, the trees shall not be required. However, provided sufficient space exists,
additional shrubs shall be required. In such case, a minimum of 24 shrubs at least 24
inches in height may be substituted for every one required tree. Groundcover may be
substituted for no more than 50% of the number of required shrubs: 6 square feet of
groundcover shall be required for every one shrub.
(2) Special Areas - Port St. Lucie Boulevard, Prima Vista Boulevard, and St.
James Drive. Properties with a depth in excess of 200 feet having a front or side
facing Prima Vista Boulevard or St. James Drive shall provide a landscape strip at
least 15 feet in depth. This landscape strip shall include one tree for each 30 linear
feet, or fractional part thereof. Trees may be placed in any arrangement within the
landscape strip provided that the spacing between tree trunks is no greater than 50
feet. A continuous hedge shall extend the length of the landscape strip. One shrub
shall be required for each 2 linear feet and the shrubs shall be at least 24 inches in
height at the time of planting. The remainder of the required landscape strip shall be
landscaped with grass, ground cover, shrubs, or other landscape treatment,
excluding paving. Properties having a front or side facing Port St. Lucie Boulevard
shall provide a landscape strip that is at least 15 feet in depth along Port St. Lucie
Boulevard and the landscape strip shall be planted as indicated below:
(a) In locations without overhead wires: Trees shall be planted at 30 feet on
center along the street frontage. Trees shall be Live Oaks (Quercus
virginiana).
15

(b) In locations with overhead wires: One tree for every 10 feet of frontage,
clustered in a minimum of 3; clusters spaced a maximum of 30 feet, 12 feet
minimum height. Trees to be selected from the following list:
Crape Myrtle Lagerstroemia indica
Japanese Privet Ligustrum japonicum
Dahoon Holly Ilex cassine
Pindo Palm Butia capitata
Chinese Fan Palm Livistona chinensis
European Fan Palm Chamaerops humilis
(c) Parking lot terminating islands shall have at minimum one tree. Two
palms having a clear trunk height of 10 feet may be substituted for one
tree, unless indicated otherwise. These trees or palms shall be selected
from the following list:
One Tree:
Live Oak Quercus virginiana
Drake Elm Ulmus parvifolia
Canary Island Date Palm Phoenix canariensis
Two Trees:
Cabbage Palm Sabal palmetto
Windmill Palm Trachycarpus fortunei
Washingtonia Palm Washingtonia robusta
Chinese Fan Palm Livistona chinensis
(d) A hedge or shrub border shall be located in this landscaping strip. Hedge
material shall be spaced a maximum of 24 inches on center and shall be at
least 24 inches tall at time of planting. Hedges shall be selected from the
following plant materials: the “Waterwise South Florida Landscapes” plant
guide, published by the South Florida Water Management District, as
amended.
(e) Twenty-five percent of the area* of the landscape strip shall be planted in
ground covers which are to be selected from the “Waterwise South Florida
Landscapes” plant guide, published by the South Florida Water Management
District, as amended, and planted at least 18 inches on center, unless noted
otherwise:
*10 % of groundcover landscaping shall be flowering groundcover.
(f) A landscape strip along the rear and sides of a parcel shall be provided as
indicated in §153.04(F)(1) above. The plant materials are to meet the
requirements for size, spacing, and type included in §153.04(F)(2)(d) and
(e).
(3) Special Area – Gatlin Boulevard. Properties fronting on Gatlin Boulevard shall
preserve vegetation located along Gatlin Boulevard as indicated in the Citywide
Design Standards and in §153.04(P)(2).
16

(G) Landscape Buffer Strips. Landscape Buffer Strips are areas where a wall or fence is required
in addition to landscaping.
(1) Landscape Buffer Strip Abutting Residential or Open Space Land Uses –
Wall Required. A wall is required in a landscape buffer strip where commercial,
industrial, institutional, office, or public facility uses abut property to the side or rear
which is designated with a residential or open space land use, or which has a
residential use such as an assisted living facility. The required wall installation must
be completed prior to the issuance of foundation permits for the building. A wall is
required in a landscape buffer strip where multi-family development abuts property to
the side or rear which is designated with single-family zoning or PUD zoning with
single-family uses. See chart below for the minimum depth requirements for
landscape buffer strips:
(a) Parcel Size
17
Buffer
Depth
(1) Less than 2 Acres. 10 feet
(2) Greater than 2 Acres and less than 5 Acres. 15 feet *
(3) Greater than 5 Acres. 20 feet *
* Properties having a depth of 260 feet or less shall have a landscape buffer
that is at least 10 feet in depth.
(b) Landscape Buffer Wall Standards. Walls shall be designed as
architectural walls. When a landscape buffer strip is located adjacent to a
right-of way, the architectural wall shall be set back a minimum of 5 feet from
the right-of-way in order to provide an area on the outside for landscaping and
maintenance, unless noted otherwise. When a landscape buffer is required
along a drainage right-of-way, the Engineering Department shall determine
whether a landscape buffer strip may be permitted to be located within the
adjacent drainage easement, if applicable. When a landscape buffer strip is
located adjacent to a residential property, the architectural wall shall be
located at least 2 feet from the property line and the area inside of the wall
shall be landscaped. No landscaping along the outside of the wall shall be
required. The architectural wall shall be located no closer than 2.5 feet to an
interior paved surface or a parking space in order to allow space for shrubs
and other landscaping. The wall and plantings shall be permanently
maintained and kept in an acceptable state of repair. See drawings located in
Appendices “A” & “B” at the end of this chapter.
1. Height. The architectural wall shall be at least 6 feet in height
measured from the finished floor elevation of the primary structure on the
subject property, not to exceed 8 feet, unless otherwise required for
industrial uses.

2. Design. The wall shall have columns or wall offsets at least every 20
feet. Columns shall extend beyond the face of the wall on both sides by at
least 3 inches and they shall be at least 13 inches in width. Offsets shall
be at least 16 inches in depth. A decorative band or cornice located along
the top of the wall shall be at least 8 inches in height. The primary color
used on the wall shall match the primary color used on the building located
on the site. The wall color shall be selected from the approved colors table
located in the “City of Port St. Lucie Design Standards”.
3. Access. Gates may be required in order to provide pedestrian access
to adjoining areas and to provide access for landscape and wall
maintenance. Gates shall be opaque.
(c) Landscape Material. One tree, at least 14 feet in height, shall be
provided for each 30 linear feet of the landscaped buffer strip, or fractional
part thereof. When a landscape buffer strip is located adjacent to a right-ofway,
trees, continuous hedging, and ground cover shall be planted on the
right-of-way side of the wall. The hedge plant materials shall be at least 24
inches high when planted and shall be planted 24 inches on center. At least
15% of the area in front of the wall shall consist of groundcover. Tree, hedge,
and ground cover materials shall be selected from the materials list located in
§153.04(F)(2). The remainder of the required landscape buffer strip shall be
landscaped with grass, ground cover, shrubs, hedges, or other landscape
treatment, excluding paving. The area inside the wall shall have at least one
shrub for each 2 linear feet, or fractional part thereof, and the shrubs shall be
at least 24 inches in height when planted.
(2) Landscape Buffer Strip Adjacent to Residential Properties Located within
Conversion Areas – Fence Required. Where commercial, industrial, institutional,
office, multifamily, and public facility uses abut property to the side or rear on which
there is an existing house and which is zoned as single-family residential and which is
located within a Conversion Area, a landscape buffer strip that is at least 10 feet in
depth located along the side adjacent to the residential property shall be provided,
unless indicated otherwise. A six-foot high opaque wooden fence or fence of similar
appearance shall be used as a temporary buffer, in lieu of architectural wall. The
temporary buffer shall remain until such time that the adjacent property is no longer
zoned single-family residential or until the house is removed from the adjacent
property. One tree, at least 12 feet in height, shall be provided for each 30 linear feet,
or fractional part thereof. A continuous hedge shall extend the length of the landscape
strip. One shrub shall be required for each 2 linear feet and the shrubs shall be at
least 24 inches in height at the time of planting. The remainder of the required
landscape buffer strip shall be landscaped with grass, ground cover, shrubs, or other
landscaping, excluding paving.
(H) Perimeter Landscaping for Open Lot Storage Areas. Open lot storage areas shall be
landscaped on all sides as in §153.04(G) with the option of using opaque wood, metal or plastic that
looks similar to wood, or chain link (with slats) fencing in lieu of a wall, except for necessary
accessways for ingress and egress from the open lot storage areas and where the storage area is
18

screened from view from surrounding property by intervening buildings and structures. However,
properties facing a collector or arterial road shall have an architectural wall located along the street
frontage. Chain link fencing shall be vinyl coated in a green or black color. Along areas facing a
street right-of-way, the required landscaping shall be located in front of the wall or fence.
(I) Perimeter Landscaping around Parking Areas and Other Vehicular Use Areas. For
properties located along Port St. Lucie Boulevard, refer to §153.04(F)(2) for required plant species.
(1) General. A landscape strip at least ten feet in depth located adjacent to an offstreet
parking area or other vehicular use area shall be provided, unless indicated
otherwise. See §153.04(I)(3) below. This landscape strip shall include one tree for
each 30 linear feet, or fractional part thereof.
(2) Landscape Barrier. In addition, a hedge, wall, or other durable landscaping
barrier shall be located within this landscape strip. If such a barrier is of non-living
material, it shall be a minimum height of three feet and one shrub or vine shall be
planted for each five linear feet or fractional part thereof. Such shrubs or vines shall
be located along the exterior side of the barrier. The remainder of the required
landscape strip shall be landscaped with grass, ground cover, shrubs, hedges, or
other landscape treatment, excluding paving.
(3) Landscape Strip Between Buildings and Vehicular Use Areas. A landscape
strip that is at least 10 feet in depth shall be located between a building and a parking
space. A landscape strip that is at least 5 feet in depth shall be located between a
building and a loading space except where access is required. A landscape strip that
is at least 5 feet in depth shall be located between a building and a driveway or a
sidewalk, unless indicated otherwise. The landscape strip shall be planted with, sod,
groundcovers, shrubs, trees, and or hedges. See §153.04(N) for required quantity of
landscaping located around building facades and §153.03(B) for special requirements
for multi-family development.
(a) Where the rear of a building is not generally accessible or visible to the
general public, such as a strip commercial shopping center, the Site Plan
Review Committee may waive or modify the requirement for a landscape strip
to be located between vehicular use areas and a building.
(b) Where an arcade is located along the front or sides of a building, the Site
Plan Review Committee may modify the requirements for a landscape strip to
be located between the arcade and the vehicular use areas and sidewalks.
Some arrangement of the required landscaping around the building shall be
provided.
(J) Parking Lot Interior Landscape Islands. For properties located along Port St. Lucie
Boulevard, refer to §153.04(F)(2) for required plant species.
(1) General. Interior portions of off-street parking facilities that are not specifically
designed as parking spaces or maneuvering areas shall not be paved for vehicle use.
These areas shall be planted and permanently maintained with trees and shrubs, and
finished with ground cover or other landscape material. Mechanical, electrical, or
utility equipment (excluding a fire hydrant) is prohibited from being located within a
required landscape island.
19

(2) Maximum Number of Continuous Parking Spaces. Parking bays shall have a
landscape island located at each end in order to break up excessively long runs of
parking spaces. Each landscape island shall have at least one shade tree.
(a) Sites Greater than Two Acres in Size. Option No.1: A landscape island
at each end of a parking bay shall be provided that has a minimum width of 15
feet and a minimum total area of 250 square feet. The parking bay shall
contain no more than 12 continuous parking spaces nor extend more than 130
linear feet, whichever is more restrictive. Option No. 2: A landscape island at
each end of a parking bay shall be provided that has a minimum width of 10
feet and a minimum total area of 150 square feet. The parking bay shall
contain no more than 8 continuous parking spaces nor extend more than 90
linear feet, whichever is more restrictive. The abutting parking bays shall
contain no more than 8 parking spaces nor extend more than 90 linear feet.
Otherwise, the landscape island shall be at minimum 15 feet in width as
indicated in Option No.1.
(b) Sites Two Acres or Less in Size. A landscape island at each end of a
parking bay shall be provided that has a minimum width of 10 feet and a
minimum total area of 150 square feet. The parking bay shall contain no more
than 12 continuous parking spaces nor extend more than 130 linear feet,
whichever is more restrictive.
(3) Curbing. All interior landscaping areas shall be curbed to prevent vehicular
encroachment. Required curbing shall conform to FDOT type D or F.
(K) Landscaping For Refuse Collection and Recycling Areas. One shrub or vine shall
be planted at two-foot centers along the outside perimeter of the dumpster enclosure wall.
(L) Other Areas. All property, except for land utilized for principal structures, accessory
structures, off-street parking areas, other vehicular use areas, and required landscaped areas shall
be landscaped with at least grass, ground cover, or mulch.
(M) Single-family Residential Landscaping. Each developed single-family or townhouse
lot or parcel shall contain a minimum number of trees selected from Appendix C: City of Port
St. Lucie Approved Tree List, based on lot or parcel size per the following chart:
Size of Lot Number of Trees Tree Type
Up to 2,500 SF 1 A or B
Up to 5,000 SF 2 A or B
Up to 7,500 SF 3 Two A and one
A or B
Up to 10,000 SF 4 Two A and two
Each additional 2,500 SF
over 10,000 SF
20
A or B
1 A or B

For townhouse development and Planned Unit Developments, other sections of this chapter
may exceed these requirements. Trees shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet overall height
when planted with a minimum five foot crown spread. At planting, the trees shall have a
caliper of at least 2.5 inches. No more than fifty (50) percent of the required trees may be
palm trees. Existing non-exotic healthy trees may be used to satisfy this requirement. A tree
protection barrier (See Appendix D – Tree Protection Barrier Detail) shall be placed around
all trees to be preserved prior to any land preparation or construction of structures or other
improvements. Larger trees may be used to meet the minimum requirements provided the
total caliper requirements are met. For example, one five inch caliper tree may be substituted
for two 2.5 inch caliper trees. The property owner is responsible for maintaining all required
landscaping in good health and appearance.
(N) Landscaping around Building Facades. A landscape strip between 5 and 20 feet shall
be located around the perimeter of a building that is visible to the general public, patrons, or
residents, unless noted otherwise. Also, refer to §153.04(I)(3) - Landscaping between Buildings and
Vehicular Use Areas and §153.03(B) – Multi-family Development. Landscaping shall be designed to
be complementary to the building facade. Plantings shall include trees, hedging, and ground cover
placed around the buildings. There shall be at least 1 shrub for every 1.5 linear feet of a building’s
perimeter, excluding paved access areas, and the shrubs shall be at least 24” in height at the time of
planting. One tree or palm (Appendix C, City of Port St. Lucie Approved Tree List) is required for
every 30 linear feet of the building’s perimeter. Note: A wider landscape strip permits more area to
plant required trees and shrubs.
(O) Removal of Exotic Vegetation. All new development and redevelopment shall be
required to remove all pestilent exotic vegetation including, at a minimum, Melaleuca leucadendra
(Punk Tree), Schinus terebinthefolius (Brazilian Pepper), and Casuarina species (Australian Pine),
Acacia auriculiformis (Earleaf Acacia), Albezia lebbeck (Woman’s Tongue), Bishofia javanica
(Bishofia/Toog), Brassaia actinophylla (Schefflera), Enterolobium cyclocarpum (Ear Pod Tree),
Eucalyptus spp. (Eucalyptus), Grevillia robusta (Silk Oak), and Sapium sebiferum (Chinese Tallow),
Araucaria heterophylla (Norfolk Island Pine), Syzygium cumini (Java Plum), Melia azedarach
(Chinaberry), Dalbergia sissoo (Rosewood), Cupianopsis anacardiodes (Carrotwood) and Lygodium
microphyllum (Old World Climbing Fern), Dioscorea bulbifera (Air Potato Vine), and Pueraria
montana var. lobata (Kudzu).
(P) Preservation of Existing Non-exotic Vegetation.
(1) Preservation of existing non-exotic vegetation shall be required whenever
possible. The Site Plan Review Committee may require tree surveys to be
submitted to meet these objectives. Existing trees and vegetation may satisfy the
landscape buffer requirements in this chapter, in total, or in part. Existing trees
and vegetation may be relocated from areas of the site to be used as or in a
landscape buffer. In determining whether trees and vegetation satisfy the
requirements of this chapter, the following shall be considered:
(a) The effectiveness of the visual screening. If adequate screening is
provided, then no additional trees and vegetation will be required.
21

(b) The quality and kind of trees and vegetation being preserved.
(c) A tree protection barrier (See Appendix D – Tree Protection Barrier Detail)
shall be placed around all trees to be preserved prior to any land preparation
or construction of structures or other improvements.
(2) Required Preserve Area - Gatlin Boulevard Only. Maintain a 20-foot wide strip
of landscape preserve area along the Gatlin Boulevard ROW. Preserve 75% of the
pine and canopy trees in this area, maintaining all native understory vegetation. No
structures, fences, walls or parking is allowed in this area. Protect preserve area with
construction fencing prior to requesting a Clearing Permit. Grade change shall be
made without depositing fill within preserve area. Non-native vegetative areas (e.g.,
pepper trees) shall be removed and planted with native landscaping in accordance
with the Port St. Lucie Landscape Code.
(Q) Drive-Throughs. No drive-through windows located between the right-of-way of a
primary collector/arterial roadway and a building are permitted. If there is no other location option,
the entire drive-through lane must be completely screened from adjacent view using a continuous
planting of vegetation at a height of six (6) feet at time of planting. Vegetation shall be maintained at
a height of at least six (6) feet.
(R) Joint Use Parking. Joint parking areas are allowed and encouraged between adjacent
land owners. Joint parking areas will be treated as a single parking area and must meet all
requirements of this chapter and the Zoning Code. Joint parking areas will only be permitted if there
is a mutual agreement among the owners of the parking areas, which is acceptable to the City and a
copy of the agreement filed with the Planning and Zoning Department.
(S) Landscape Strips Combined. Where the edges of required landscape strips are
spaced apart 20 feet or less, a single landscape strip may be utilized and the landscaping may be
distributed over the entire width of the combined landscape strips. However, requirements for
landscape buffer strips as indicated in §153.04(G) shall not be modified. Where a landscape buffer
strip and a landscape strip are spaced apart 20 feet or less, only a landscape buffer strip shall be
required. Where requirements for a landscape strip differ, the more stringent requirements shall take
precedence.
(T) Mechanical, Electrical, and Utility Equipment. A hedge that is at least 24 inches in
height when planted and that is spaced at least 24 inches on center shall be planted around
mechanical, electrical, and utility equipment except where access to the equipment is necessary. Lift
stations shall have an opaque wall or fence located around the perimeter except where the gate is
located. The gate shall be semi-transparent in order to allow for visual inspection of the equipment
by the Utility Department. The lift station’s alarm light shall be clearly visible above the wall or fence
at all times. Hedging shall be located around the wall or fence. The wall or fence shall be of a
material that is similar or complementary to the building or buildings located on the site. Air
conditioning condensing and compressor units shall not be located on a side of a building that faces
a street right-of-way.
22

(U) Gated and/or Walled Entrances. Trees, shrubs, and groundcover shall be planted
along a wall or fence and around a guard house located at a gated entrance. At minimum, a
landscape strip that is at least 10 feet in depth shall be located along the side that is visible to the
general public. At least one tree for each 15 linear feet, or fractional part thereof, of the walled
entrance (excluding the gates) shall be provided. One shrub shall be required for each 2 linear feet
and the shrubs shall be at least 2 feet in height at time of planting.
(V) Sidewalks and Bikepaths.
(1)
(a) New development located along existing streets. New development
located along an existing street right-of-way that is 60 feet in width or greater
shall provide a sidewalk that is at least 5 feet in width, typically along the
property line and within the street right-of-way. However, in such case where
the Engineering Department determines that a sidewalk located within a rightof-way
is not appropriate or will be in conflict with other public works, the
Engineering Department may require that the sidewalk be located on the
subject property to be developed, typically along the property line. Location
and design shall be subject to review by the Site Plan Review Committee. In
areas where the City plans to install and finance the construction of a
sidewalk, the developer shall not be required to install the sidewalk. However,
the developer shall be required to pay the current bid price for the installation
of the proposed sidewalk for the length of the subject property unless previous
agreement or ordinance indicates otherwise. In areas where a design plan for
sidewalks and/or bikepaths has been adopted or established, the design plan
shall take precedence as to the location, size, and other features of the
sidewalk and/or bikepath. Sidewalks shall not encroach into landscape strips.
(b) Existing development located along existing streets. Existing
development located along an existing street right-of-way that is 60 feet in
width or greater seeking major revisions of a site plan pursuant to Section
158.237(D) of the Zoning Code, shall provide a sidewalk that is at least 5 feet
in width, typically along the property line and within the street right-of-way.
However, in such case where the Engineering Department determines that a
sidewalk located within a right-of-way is not appropriate or will be in conflict
with other public works, the Engineering Department may require that the
sidewalk be located on the subject property to be developed, typically along
the property line. Location and design shall be subject to review by the Site
Plan Review Committee. In areas where the City plans to install and finance
the construction of a sidewalk, the developer shall be required to pay the
current
bid price for the installation of the proposed sidewalk for the length of the
subject property unless previous agreement or ordinance indicates otherwise.
In areas where a design plan for sidewalks and/or bikepaths has been
adopted or established, the design plan shall take precedence as to the
location, size, and other features of the sidewalk and/or bikepath. Sidewalks
shall not encroach into landscape strips. Existing development seeking minor
revisions of a site plan pursuant to Section 158.237(C) shall not be subject to
the sidewalk requirement.
23

(2) Public and Private Streets or Driveways. A sidewalk that is at least 5 feet in
width shall be located along the side or sides of the following proposed street rightsof-way
or main access routes:
(a) A public or private street right-of-way located adjacent to a non-residential
use. A sidewalk shall be located along the side of the street located adjacent
to the non-residential use.
(b) A public or private street right-of-way or driveway that serves as a main
access route to a residential development having 400 units or more.
Sidewalks shall be located on both sides.
(c) All collector or arterial roads. Sidewalks shall be located on both sides.
(3) Whenever possible, a sidewalk shall be located along the edge of the street rightof-way,
leaving a green space located between the street pavement and the
sidewalk. See Subdivision Regulations, Chapter 156, for additional requirements
concerning sidewalks for subdivisions. Where there is conflict, the more stringent
code requirement shall take precedence.
(4) In order to avoid installing a sidewalk that will lead nowhere nor have a functional
purpose, where developed properties located along both sides of the subject property
do not have sidewalks and it is unlikely that in the near future that sidewalks will be
installed, the installation of a sidewalk shall not be required.
(W) Building Area Increase. When the building area on a developed site is increased by
more than 500 square feet, the landscaping on the site shall conform to current code as much as
reasonably possible.
§ 153.05 MORE STRINGENT REQUIREMENTS MAY BE REQUIRED
This subchapter shall be a minimum standard and shall apply to all areas of the city. The
Site Plan Review Committee, Planning & Zoning Board, and/or the City Council may from time to
time require, as a part of site plan approval, more stringent requirements on landscaping for a
particular site plan.
§ 153.06 SUBMISSION OF LANDSCAPING PLAN; APPROVAL PRIOR TO
ENACTMENT
(A) A landscaping plan prepared, signed and sealed by a Florida registered Landscape
Architect shall be submitted as part of the site plan submission required by Chapter 158 (Zoning
Code) and shall be enforced under this subchapter.
24

(B) Such plan shall be approved by the Site Plan Review Committee prior to the issuance of
a building or paving permit and shall contain the following:
(1) Name, address, and phone number of the owner, landscape firm, and designer.
(2) North arrow, scale, and date (minimum scale one inch: = 50 feet).
(3) Property lines, easements, and rights-of-way.
(4) Location of all existing and proposed electrical, mechanical, and utility equipment
and location of all utility services (electrical power lines, cable lines, water lines,
sewer lines, and the like).
(5) Location of any existing or proposed structure.
(6) Location of proposed site features such as earthen mounds, walls, fences, and
water areas.
(7) Location of any existing or proposed vehicular use areas.
(8) Location of any existing or proposed sidewalks, curbs, and wheel stops.
(9) Location of required landscape strips and landscape buffer strips.
(10) Location, caliper, height, description of all landscape material including name,
quantity, spacing, and installation.
(11) Location and area of landscaping for freestanding signs.
(12) Location of stormwater retention/detention ponds, swales, underground pipes,
and other related features.
(13) If a landscape buffer wall is required, provide a note on the Site Plan and
Landscape Plan that states that the height of the wall shall be at least 6 feet above
the finished floor height, not to exceed 8 feet, unless otherwise required for an
industrial use.
(14) All landscape plans must demonstrate compliance with the requirements of
Chapter 153, City of Port St. Lucie Landscape Code. In tabular format, provide the
following information:
(a) Number of shrubs and trees provided and the number of shrubs and trees
required for all area landscaping requirements.
(b) Identify the fifty (50) percent drought tolerant plant material by showing
the quantity, percentage, species, and soil moisture range for drought tolerant
plant materials.
25

(c) Verify that fifty (50) percent of all required trees are native species.
(d) Verify that twenty-five (25) percent of all required shrubs are native
species.
(e) Verify that twenty (20) percent of the required trees are flowering trees.
(f) Verify that seventy-five (75) percent of the required trees located within
landscape islands are evergreen trees.
(g) Verify that the use of sod is limited to less than fifty (50) percent of the
site.
(h) Verify that no more than twenty-five (25) percent of the required trees are
palm trees.
(i) Identify proposed irrigation zones by low or high water use.
(j) If applicable, verify the mix of tree species under §153.04(D)(7)(h).
(k) If applicable, identify non-potable water source.
(15) An Irrigation plan showing head layout, mainline routing, mainline sleeving, point
of connection specifications and details, installation details, project specifications,
project notes, and an equipment legend shall be submitted with the required
landscape plan.
(16) As deemed necessary, City staff may request that dimensions be shown.
(C) Landscaping approved prior to the adoption date of this subchapter. Landscape plans
approved prior to the adoption date of this subchapter, as part of the site plan review process, shall
be enforced under the procedure contained in this section.
(1) When an off-street parking or loading lot existed as of the effective date of this
subchapter and such off-street parking lot is enlarged in area or capacity,
landscaping for the entire parking lot, both old and new, shall comply with this
subchapter.
(2) When an off-street parking or loading lot existed as of the effective date of this
subchapter and the building that the parking or loading lot services is reconstructed
or remodeled in excess of 50% of its value, landscaping shall be provided as set forth
in this subchapter.
26

§ 153.07 CITY PLANNING; ENFORCEMENT
The Zoning Administrator or a designated representative is hereby authorized to enforce this
subchapter. This subchapter shall be deemed a part of Chapter 158 (Zoning Code) and violations
shall be enforced in the same manner as are similar Zoning Code violations. The Planning and
Zoning Department shall provide initial notice of violations based on complaints received. Additional
corrective action will be forwarded to the Code Enforcement Division or as needed for further
enforcement.
§ 153.08 CONTRACTING WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES
The City may contract with any qualified outside agency to review landscape plans, and to
inspect landscaping plans according to the requirements of this subchapter.
§ 153.09 VARIANCES AND ADMINISTRATIVE VARIANCES
Variances shall be processed in accordance with §158.295 through §158.302. The applicant
shall submit an application, pay the associated review fee, and submit a landscape plan to apply for
a variance.
(A) The Planning and Zoning Administrator shall have the authority to hear and decide
requests for the following administrative variances.
(1) Height. Variances of 10% or less to the required height of a wall, fence, tree, or
shrub.
(2) Amount. Variances of 10% or less to the required number of trees, shrubs, or
ground cover.
(B) Substituting landscaping for a required architectural wall. See Section §153.12.
§ 153.10 EXCEPTION TO LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
When developed properties are affected by a right-of-way acquisition program of the City,
County, or State, the requirements of §153.04(D) shall be waived by the amount of property required
for acquisition, subject to the approval of the Site Plan Review Committee.
§ 153.11 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEWS OF A LANDSCAPE PLAN
(A) Minor revisions to a Landscape Plan or Subdivision Landscape and Street Tree Planting
Plan may be reviewed and considered for approval by the Zoning Administrator. The Zoning
Administrator may refer the request to the Site Plan Review Committee for a recommendation.
Minor revisions to a Landscape Plan include the following:
27

(1) Relocation. The relocation of 20% or fewer of the required number of trees,
shrubs, or groundcover, provided that the landscaping to be relocated is not located
within a drainage or utility easement or right-of-way.
(2) Substitution. The substitution of 20% or less of a species for another species,
provided that the proposed species is listed on the “Approved Tree List" (Appendix C)
or in the “Waterwise South Florida Landscapes” plant guide, published by the South
Florida Water Management District, and that the landscaping proposed to be
substituted is not located within a drainage or utility easement or right-of-way.
Substitutions must be in conformance with the requirements of this chapter.
(B) Major revisions to a Landscape Plan or Subdivision Landscape and Street Tree Planting
Plan shall be approved by the Site Plan Review Committee and shall follow the procedures set forth
in §153.06.
§ 153.12 EXEMPTION OR MODIFICATION TO LANDSCAPE BUFFER WALL
REQUIREMENT
(A) Requests to substitute landscaping for an architectural wall that is a required feature of a
landscape buffer strip or requests to be exempt from installing the landscape buffer strip
requirement shall be reviewed by the City Council; or
(B) Requests to substitute landscaping for an architectural wall that is a required feature of a
landscape buffer strip where commercial, industrial, institutional, office or public facility uses abut
property to the side or rear which is designated with an open space land use, but used for drainage
or stormwater retention, shall be subject to approval of the Site Plan Review Committee.
§ 153.13 LEGISLATIVE INTENT
TREE PROTECTION AND PRESERVATION
In recognizing that trees provide a meaningful contribution to a healthy, beautiful, and safer
community attributable to their carbon dioxide absorption, oxygen production, dust filtration, wind
and noise reduction, soil erosion prevention, wildlife habitat, surface drainage improvement,
beautification and aesthetic enhancement of improved and vacant lands, and recognizing that most
species of trees require at least two decades of growth to begin to exhibit such beneficial qualities, it
is the intent of this article to establish policies, regulations, and standards necessary to ensure that
the city, which has been declared a "Tree City USA" community and is a signatory to the U.S.
Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, will continue to realize the benefits provided
by its urban forest.
(A) To achieve the objectives listed above, the city deems it necessary to provide for the
protection and preservation of trees, to prevent the reduction of the existing tree canopy, and to
prevent the unnecessary removal of trees and other native vegetation. The provisions of this
subchapter are enacted to:
28

(1) Provide standards for the protection of trees as part of the land development
process;
(2) Prevent large-scale land clearing without provision for the preservation of
protected trees;
(3) Provide for the replacement of tree canopy removed as a result of the
construction process; and
(4) Preserve the community's character and quality of life well into the future.
(B) Purpose. It is the objective of this article to safeguard the public health, safety, and
welfare through Tree Protection and to promote the findings of this article by following the guidelines
contained herein.
(C) Applicability. This article applies to protected trees on public and private property.
§ 153.14 PERMIT REQUIRED FOR TREE REMOVAL
(A) Except as provided for in the article, no person shall, directly or indirectly, cut down,
substantially alter, destroy, remove, relocate, damage, or authorize any such act involving a
protected tree situated on land within the city, without first obtaining a tree removal permit.
Exceptions are as follows:
(1) Platted single-family lots are exempt from the preservation requirements of this
article as long as the minimum landscaping requirements, as may be required by this
chapter, are met and maintained. Preserved trees may be substituted for tree
planting required by the landscaping section of this Code.
(2) Any tree located in botanical gardens or in state-approved or government
nurseries and groves which are grown for sale or public purpose.
(3) Non-native fruit trees cultivated or grown for the specific purpose of producing
edible fruit, including, but not limited to: mangos, avocados or species of citrus.
(4) No permit shall be required to remove non-native invasive or undesirable species
listed under Section 153.04(D)(7)(c).
(5) Any property subject to the requirements of §157.39 of the Natural Resources
Code that is providing on site or off site upland habitat preservation and/or mitigation.
(6) Preserve and Parks Management Activities. No permit shall be required for tree
removal associated with an adopted management plan for government maintained or
privately maintained parks, recreation areas, wildlife management areas,
conservation areas, and preserves. The purpose of the tree removal activity shall be
to protect and preserve the natural values and functions of the ecological
communities present, such as, clearing for firebreaks, conducting prescribed burns,
or construction of fences. The Zoning Administrator shall be notified in advance of
any clearing of native vegetation on a site.
29

(7) Utility companies authorized to provide utility service may remove Protected
Tree(s) that endanger public safety and welfare by interfering with utility service in an
existing utility easement or public right-of-way, provided work is done by or under the
control of the operating utility company and said company has received all necessary
licenses or permits to provide utility service within the easement.
(8) Any activity conducted by a lawfully operating and bona fide commercial nursery
or agricultural operation, when the activity occurs on property owned or lawfully
occupied by the person conducting such activity.
(9) Pruning and trimming of trees or other vegetation when necessary to conduct a
survey or site examination for the preparation of subdivision plats, site plans, or tree
surveys, providing that such pruning and trimming is conducted under the direction of
a Florida registered surveyor or engineer.
(10) Routine landscape maintenance such as limited trimming or pruning of
vegetation that is not intended to result in the eventual death of the plant, or any other
landscaping activity which is commonly recognized as routine maintenance.
(B) During the period of an emergency such as a hurricane, flood, or any other natural
disaster, the requirements of this chapter may be temporarily waived by the City Manager, so that
private or public work to restore order in the city will in no way be hampered.
§ 153.15 PERMIT PROCEDURE AND CRITERIA FOR ISSUING PERMITS
(A) Permits for the removal or relocation of a protected tree shall be obtained by filing an
application with the Planning and Zoning Department. Approval of the application and issuance of a
tree removal permit shall be required prior to any land clearing or grubbing, prior to any disturbance
of the root system or site development, or prior to the occurrence of any changes to an existing
developed site. When a development order is issued for a site plan, subdivision application, or a
landscape modification application, a separate tree removal permit shall not be required if the trees
to be removed are identified and mitigated on the approved landscape plan.
(B) No tree removal permit shall be issued unless the Zoning Administrator finds that at least
one of the following criteria is satisfied with respect to each protected tree designated for removal:
(1) The tree is located within the net buildable area of a given site as identified on the
tree survey and site plan by the applicant;
(2) The tree is located within an existing or proposed right-of-way;
(3) The tree is located within an existing or proposed easement, stormwater
management tract or facility, provided that only the minimum area reasonably
necessary for the service or use shall be considered for purposes of determining
whether there is necessity for tree removal;
30

(4) The tree is located where it creates or will create a safety or health hazard or a
nuisance with respect to existing or proposed structures or vehicles or pedestrian
routes and there is no reasonable alternative to relocate or reconfigure the
improvements. The Zoning Administrator or City Arborist may require verification of
claim(s) be provided by a statement from a certified engineer or certified arborist in
the State of Florida. When a protected tree is causing visible structural damage to a
building or structure and no feasible alternative other than removal of such tree
exists, the Zoning Administrator may allow the tree to be replaced with one tree
meeting the minimum requirements of the City Code. Trees shall be selected from
Appendix C: City of Port St. Lucie Approved Tree List.
(5) The tree is located where it interferes with the installation, delivery, or
maintenance of proposed or existing utility services to the site;
(6) The tree is confirmed by the Zoning Administrator, City Arborist, or by a certified
arborist to be diseased, severely injured, or in danger of falling; or
(7) The tree unreasonably prevents development of a lot or parcel of the physical use
thereof. However, a tree removal permit shall not be granted where the applicant has
failed to design and locate the proposed improvements so as to minimize the removal
of trees consistent with the permitted use of the lot or parcel under the zoning
ordinance as amended.
(C) In lieu of submitting a tree removal permit application, an applicant may submit a no tree
verification statement stating that no trees protected by this article exist on site. If such statement is
verified by the Zoning Administrator (or Zoning Administrator designee), no permit will be required.
(D) Tree removal applications for trees located on 'common' property must be accompanied
by a letter from the Board of Directors of the Homeowner's Association indicating it was the
consensus of the Board that the tree be removed.
(E) Inspections. An application for a tree removal permit constitutes consent by the property
owner and/or applicant for the City to conduct site inspections on the subject property, pursuant to
permit requirements.
§ 153.16 TREE PROTECTION AND MITIGATION
(A)
(1) Any tree removal permit shall require a mitigation plan. Any replacement trees
that are the subject of such mitigation shall be planted, relocated, or preserved before
issuance of a certificate of occupancy or similar authorization. Replacement trees
shall be chosen from Appendix C: City of Port St. Lucie Approved Tree List and shall
meet the minimum requirements of the City Code. Mitigation shall be as follows:
(2) Replacement trees shall be in addition to the minimum landscape requirements
set out in this article.
31

(3) Any tree which is the subject of a mitigation plan shall be replaced at a ratio of
one inch D.B.H. for each inch of D.B.H. removed, except that each palm tree which is
preserved through on-site protection or relocation will count towards any required
palm tree mitigation requirement at a rate of one palm tree preserved/relocated equal
to one palm tree removed. The following mitigation credit shall apply:
(a) Trees preserved or relocated on-site, which exceed the minimum
landscape requirements of this article shall count as equivalent replacement
D.B.H.
(b) Trees planted on-site which exceed the minimum landscape code shall
count as one-half (1/2) credit towards the mitigation requirements.
(B) A tree location survey, prepared by a registered land surveyor, professional engineer,
registered forester, certified arborist, or landscape architect, identifying all existing trees with a
D.B.H. of 12 inches or greater is required for all development applications and shall be included with
any site plan, subdivision, application, clearing plan, or similar authorization. A tree survey may be
required as part of an application for PUD zoning at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator. This
tree location survey drawing shall be overlaid directly upon the site plan or subdivision application
sufficiently to provide the accurate location of all existing trees which are proposed to be destroyed,
relocated, or preserved, the botanical name, and common name of each tree, and the diameter (to
the nearest half inch at 4.5 feet above ground), height and canopy spread of each tree. If existing
trees are to be transplanted, the proposed relocation for such trees shall be shown on the drawing,
together with a statement as to how such trees are to be protected during land clearing and
construction and maintained after construction shall be included. The survey shall also include a
statement indicating how trees not proposed for removal or relocation are to be protected during
land clearing and construction, if applicable. The number of trees to be retained, relocated,
removed, and the new trees to be replanted by diameter to the nearest half inch shall be shown in
tabular form.
(C) The replanting design shall provide adequate space for root and crown development.
(D) The property owner shall be responsible for maintenance of the mitigation trees, such
responsibility to include replacement of unhealthy and dead trees. The property owner shall submit
to an on-site inspection of the planted/preserved vegetation twelve (12) months after the issuance of
the final development order or permit approval. If it is determined that the planted vegetation is dead,
diseased, or otherwise not in compliance with provisions of this Code and the original approved
mitigation plan, the property owner shall be provided notice and directed to correct any such
deficiencies and replace all non-compliant materials within sixty (60) days.
(E) Tree Preservation Fund. If it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Zoning
Administrator, or the Zoning Administrator’s designee, that the site is not suitable for on-site
mitigation or does not have the capacity to hold all of the required mitigation, then the applicant may
contribute a fee established by the City Council by resolution per inch D.B.H. required for mitigation,
to be used by the city for the acquisition, maintenance and/or planting of native trees on publicly
owned lands, or for the funding of the City’s Keep Port St. Lucie Beautiful tree give away program.
Any such monies contributed in satisfaction of the applicant's mitigation requirement shall be placed
in a specially designated fund titled “The City of Port St. Lucie Tree Preservation Fund”, the use of
which must be consistent with this article.
32

(F) Parking Space Reduction to Protect Existing Trees. A 10% reduction in the number of
required parking spaces on the site shall be allowed to the extent that the reduction in the amount of
required pavement will preserve existing healthy trees in an undisturbed, natural condition. The
amount of reduction can be determined only after taking into consideration any unique site
conditions and the impact of the reduction on parking needs for the use. This reduction is
discretionary and subject to the approval of the Zoning Administrator.
(G) Building Setback Reduction to Protect Existing Trees. Upon the request of the applicant,
the Zoning Administrator may permit the applicant to obtain up to a ten (10) foot reduction in front or
rear setback requirements when this would be sufficient to protect an existing tree as determined by
a certified arborist or landscape architect. To qualify for this exception, the tree(s) shall be at least
twelve (12) inches in diameter, measured four and one-half (4.5) feet above the ground. The tree
must also be in a condition and location such that it will not present a hazard to life or property
following site development, and can be expected to remain healthy for at least twenty years as
determined by a certified arborist or landscape architect. A reduction in the setback requirement
shall be authorized only when all the following facts and conditions are found to exist:
(1) The applicable yard setback requirements would make it impossible to protect
existing tree(s) without causing undue hardship; and
(2) The requested yard reduction does not go beyond the minimum necessary to protect
the tree(s) as determined by a certified arborist or other tree professional; and
(3) The yard reduction will not result in a development that is materially detrimental to
the character and design of the surrounding area.
§153.17 APPEAL AND PENALTIES
(A) Appeals. Any person adversely affected by the decision of the Zoning Administrator, Site
Plan Review Committee, or Planning and Zoning Board in the enforcement or interpretation of this
article may appeal such decision to the Zoning Board of Appeals in accordance with §158.302.
(B) Penalties. If protected trees are removed without a permit or otherwise in violation of this
chapter, the number of replacement trees shall be up to three times the amount for every offense
and the applicant shall be charged twice the normal application fee for tree removal. Each tree
removed in violation of this article or any permit issued pursuant to this article shall constitute a
separate violation. Remedial action shall be taken to restore the property consistent with a
restoration plan approved by the Zoning Administrator or payment into the city tree fund in an
amount equal to the cost of the three (3) to one (1) ratio. No certificate of occupancy or similar
authorization shall be issued for any development until all applicable permits or restoration plan
conditions have been accomplished.
§153.18 ALTERNATIVE COMPLIANCE
An applicant may submit a landscape plan which varies from the strict application of the
requirements of this chapter in order to accommodate unique site features or utilize innovative
design. An alternative compliance landscape plan shall be approved only upon a finding that it fulfills
the purpose and intent of this article as well as or more effectively than would adherence to the strict
requirements of this chapter.
33

(A) Evaluation. In evaluating proposed alternative compliance landscape plans,
consideration shall be given to proposals which preserve native vegetation and use drought-tolerant
plantings and other low water use landscape design principles and where the design may
accomplish one or more of the following:
§153.19 Reserved
(1) Ensures preservation of the maximum predevelopment vegetation on the site; and
(2) Is designed to assure that the overall appearance and function of the proposed
project is compatible with other properties in the immediate area; is demonstrably
responsive to the environmental attributes of soil, slope, hydrology, and vegetative
communities unique to the site; is consistent with sound planning and site design
principles, and contingent upon:
a. Structures and other improvements are designed as to utilize existing site
characteristics of topography, existing vegetative communities, and any unique
environmental feature;
b. Conflicts between vehicular and pedestrian circulation are avoided;
c. Planting plans indicate a diversity of plant species in the categories of ground
covers, shrubs, and trees;
d. Integration of proposed and existing vegetation is demonstrated in the plans
with an emphasis on maintaining native community buffers and corridors,
preserving or restoring forest community types, and providing for the natural
ecological function of each type by using such techniques as preserving a
diversity of upper story, mid-story, and understory;
e. Plant schedules contain botanical and common names, sizes of materials by
dimension and container size, location by dimension, and notation describing
species diversity;
f. Planting specifications and species selected for the site are suitable for
individual site environmental characteristics of soil slope, aspect, wetness and
microclimate; and
g. Plans indicate compatibility with adjacent site environmental features.
34

§ 153.20 LEGISLATIVE INTENT
LAND CLEARING
(A) It is the intent of this subchapter to provide for and encourage the preservation of
existing tree canopy and other vegetation, wherever practicable, during any land clearing or
development within the city. In retaining existing tree canopy and other vegetation, aesthetics are
improved, soil erosion is reduced, groundwater is increased, air is purified and air temperature is
modified, thus contributing to the public health and general welfare of the community. In areas
where preservation is considered unfeasible, planting or seeding by artificial means will aid in the
above mentioned advantages for the public good.
(1978 Code, §15-50) (Ord. 82 32, passed 9-28-82)
(B) Additionally, this subchapter provides for the regulation of stormwater discharges from
cleared areas and/or construction sites through the implementation of the NPDES program.
Stormwater discharge regulation will contribute to the public health and general welfare of the
community and environment by minimizing the likelihood of harmful pollutants from washing into
local surface waters.
§ 153.21 DEFINITIONS
BMPs. Best Management Practices for the control and containment of stormwater.
CLEAR. Removal or destruction of any vegetation protected by the provision of this
subchapter.
DRI. Development of Regional Impact.
DBH. Diameter breast height. The diameter of the tree at breast height, usually 4-1/2 feet
from the base of the tree.
FDEP. Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
GROSS ACREAGE. Total land area of a parcel including streets, roads, drainage,
undevelopable areas, and water bodies.
LAND CLEARING PLAN. A graphic diagram or aerial showing the areas of land
disturbance, areas to be cleared and sediment and erosion control measures.
MASS GRADING PLAN. A plan showing the areas to be cleared, stockpile areas, locations
of lakes, locations of roads, and anticipated haul routes. These plans are associated with
clearing land, road grading, and excavation of lakes within approved DRIs or PUDs prior to
35

NOI. Notice of Intent. Form sent by contractor to FDEP notifying FDEP that clearing or
construction activities will occur on the project. The NOI is an application to work under the
Generic Permit for Stormwater Discharge from Large and Small Construction Activity.
NPDES. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. This is a federal permitting
program to regulate stormwater discharges.
PARCEL. Any contiguous real property consisting of one or more lots or tracts under unified
ownership or control and having a gross acreage of one acre or more, unless noted
otherwise.
PUD. Planned Unit Development.
SFWMD. South Florida Water Management District.
SWPPP. Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. Plan showing the BMPs to reduce
stormwater runoff from cleared areas or construction sites.
USACE. United States Army Corps of Engineers.
§ 153.22 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
(A) The provisions of this subchapter shall be held to be minimum requirements, adopted for
the protection and promotion of the public health, safety, or general welfare. Whenever the
requirements of this subchapter are at variance with the requirements of any other lawfully adopted
rules, regulations, ordinances, deed restrictions, or covenants, the most restrictive or that imposing
the higher standards shall govern.
(‘78 Code, §15-57) (Ord. 81-48, passed 9-24-81).
(B) Any development that is one acre or more in size is required to have an approved
land clearing plan and clearing permit prior to clearing or developing the land.
(C) Any operation that disturbs one acre or more will be required to make an
application for a NPDES Generic Permit for Stormwater Discharge from Large and Small
Construction Activity by completing an NOI and submitting to FDEP.
(D) While a site is being cleared and/or developed, the topsoil shall be stabilized to
prevent soil erosion as required by NPDES and other regulations.
(E) Upland preservation requirements shall not be applicable to any lot or parcel under
two acres in size. Also, refer to the Natural Resource Code, Chapter 157. This exemption does not
apply to the tree preservation requirements of this Chapter. See §153.13 through §153.18 for tree
preservation requirements.
(F) All development with native upland vegetation shall meet the requirements of
Chapter 157, The Natural Resource Protection Code and §153.28 for gopher tortoise surveys.
36

(G) The clearing of platted single-family parcels bordering on waterways of the North
Fork of the St. Lucie River shall require a plot plan and clearing permit as stipulated in Ordinance
81-17. A 15-foot native vegetation buffer shall be preserved or provided along the mean high water
line as a means to deter shoreline erosion. For these parcels, the residential plot plan survey shall
also show the 15-foot buffer in addition to the requirements outlined in §150.404. The residential
plot plans shall be submitted to the Engineering Department for review.
(H) Approved DRI or PUD. Grading and excavation of roads, stormwater lakes, and
drainage canals/ditches that are identified on an approved DRI or PUD master plan shall be
permitted provided the applicant has obtained appropriate SFWMD and USACE permits and
acknowledges that such activities shall be at his own risk prior to final development plan approval.
(I) Exceptions. It shall be unlawful to clear any parcel located within the city limits without
first having obtained a valid building permit, a land clearing permit, or similar authorization except for
the following activities:
(1) Construction and maintenance of roads, drainage ditches, and swales located in
platted or dedicated public or private rights-of-way, and utility or drainage easements.
(2) Minimal clearing of lines less than 10-feet wide for surveying purposes, to install
sediment and erosion control measures.
(3) Minimal clearing for the maintenance of property access and for minor
recreational pursuits such as fishing, nature trails, boardwalks, and wildlife
observation: 5-feet maximum trail width.
(4) All plant or tree nurseries and commercial timber operations shall be exempt from
the terms and provisions of this subchapter in relation to those trees planted or
growing on their premises which are so planted or growing for the sale or intended
sale to the general public or in the ordinary course of the grower’s commercial
business.
(5) Platted single-family parcels that have a Certificate of Occupancy, unless
indicated otherwise. See §153.22(G).
(J) Unless exempted under §153.22 (I), all land clearing activities shall be associated with an
active development order such as an approved site plan, subdivision plat, or building permit and
shall occur in conjunction with the construction phase of the project.
(K) A land clearing permit does not authorize the damage, removal, relocation, or destruction
of protected trees. Land clearing permits shall only be issued after all landscape/tree protection and
drainage requirements have been addressed.
§ 153.23 LAND CLEARING PLAN AND PERMIT
(A) Any project that is one acre or more is required to have a land clearing plan prior to
clearing or development of the property. The process for submittal and review of the clearing plan
shall be in accordance with the site plan review requirements set forth in §158.235 through
§158.254.
37

(B) Format and information.
1. The clearing plan shall clearly show:
(a) Either a graphic drawing or an aerial of the site with a scale similar to the
site plan.
(b) A legal description, north arrow, scale.
(c) The name, address, phone number, and fax number of the owner,
developer, and engineering firm, landscape firm, or environmental consultant
submitting the land clearing plan.
(d) The site area, cleared area, area to be retained, and area to be
preserved.
(e) A tree survey, if applicable, showing all protected trees (their location, and
identified by common and botanical name, height, and D.B.H. See
§153.16(B)).
(f) The area to be preserved or mitigated in accordance with upland habitat
preservation requirements, if applicable, in acres and square feet.
(g) An explanation of how trees and/or preserve areas are to be protected
during site clearing activities in accordance with the requirements of this
chapter and/or the Natural Resources Code.
(h) The location of all wetlands, if applicable, and details of how they are to
be protected, i.e., silt screens or other approved techniques, during site
clearing activities.
(i) Ground elevation and proposed fill elevation, where applicable.
(j) The location of silt barriers or other stormwater protection or soil
stabilization features.
(k) The location of areas designated for equipment storage construction
staging, and equipment access.
(2) Mass grading plans for DRIs or PUDs require the following items in addition to
those listed above:
(a) Topographic survey
(b) Aerial photograph of the site showing existing and proposed spot
elevations
(c) Locations of stockpiles
(d) Locations of lake areas
38

(e) Haul routes
(3) A SWPPP shall be provided for all clearing plans. The SWPPP shall be
formatted per the FDEP Generic Plan Template.
(C) Standards for Review. In review of the Land Clearing Plans, the Site Plan Review
Committee should consider the following:
(1) The preservation of existing tree canopy, upland habitat, wetland communities,
and other vegetation (excluding exotic species) to the maximum extent possible.
(2) The applicant’s method for protecting vegetation to be retained or preserved
during and after the land clearing process.
(3) The Federal, State, and local permit and ordinance requirements to change
existing ground elevations.
(4) Stabilization of disturbed soils to prevent erosion.
(5) Compliance of the SWPPP with the requirements of FDEP.
§ 153.24 LAND CLEARING PERMIT
(A) Any project that is one acre or more is required to have a land clearing permit prior to
clearing or development of the property.
(B) Application for a land clearing permit is made by submitting the following information to
the Planning and Zoning Department:
(1) A cover letter explaining the request.
(2) A completed compliance form for the clearing permit.
(3) One copy of the signed and sealed approved land clearing or mass grading plan.
(4) One copy of the signed and sealed approved SWPPP.
(5) One electronic copy (PDF format) of the signed and sealed approved land
clearing or mass grading plan.
(6) One electronic copy of the signed and sealed approved SWPPP.
(7) One copy of the NOI submitted to FDEP.
(8) Upland mitigation fee, if required – for fee amount, refer to the Planning and
Zoning Department’s latest fee schedule and §157.39.
39

(9) Tree removal permit, if required, and mitigation fee, if required.
(C) The Planning and Zoning Department will review the items listed in §153.24(B)(2), (3),
(8) and (9) for sufficiency and compliance with the plans approved by the Site Plan Review
Committee and conduct a site visit to ensure that the trees or other vegetation to be preserved are
protected in accordance with the approved management plan and/or tree preservation plan. Once
the information is found to be sufficient and in compliance with the plans approved by the Site Plan
Review Committee, the Planning and Zoning Department will approve the submittal and forward the
information to the Engineering Department.
(D) The Engineering Department will review the items listed in §153.24(B)(3), (4) and (7) for
sufficiency and compliance with the plans approved by the Site Plan Review Committee; review the
SWPPP for compliance with NPDES guidelines; and conduct a site visit to ensure that the perimeter
sediment and erosion controls have been installed and are installed properly. Upon finding the
submittal to be sufficient and in compliance with applicable regulations, that the site has constructed
appropriate BMPs for the management of stormwater, and that the appropriate NPDES fees have
been paid, the Engineering Department will issue the clearing permit.
(E) After all documentation is obtained and is in compliance, a clearing permit will be issued
within ten working days.
§ 153.25 RIGHT OF SITE PLAN REVIEW COMMITTEE TO IMPOSE PERMIT CONDITIONS
The Site Plan Review Committee may impose upon any land clearing permit any conditions
as are necessary to accomplish the standards as set forth in this subchapter.
(‘78 Code, §15-54) (Ord. 81-48, passed 9-24-81)
§ 153.26 APPEAL OF DECISIONS OF COMMITTEE
If the Land Clearing Permit is denied, the property owner may appeal to the City Council.
These appeals shall be initiated by filing with the City Clerk a Notice of Appeal within 30 days of the
denial. The City Council shall, within thirty (30) days of receiving such Notice of Appeal, schedule a
hearing on the same and, after hearing, may deny, approve, or modify the clearing plan by majority
vote. (‘78 Code, §15-54) (Ord. 81-48, passed 9-24-81)
§ 153.27 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
All development shall meet the requirements of Chapter 157, The Natural Resource
Protection Code. A site survey for gopher tortoises shall be conducted on all properties having
native upland vegetation. If gopher tortoises are identified on the property, then the property must
also be surveyed for listed species associated with gopher tortoise burrows. A general survey for
listed plant species may also be required depending on the characteristics of the site. See Natural
Resource Code, §157.24 for further detail.
40

§ 153.28 PENALTY
Whomever violates Chapter 153, Article III Land Clearing by clearing land for which a land
clearing permit is required without having first obtained that permit, or violates any conditions of an
applicable permit shall be required to mitigate for the cleared area by paying a fee that will be
deposited into the conservation trust for upland preserve, if applicable, or the tree preservation fund,
if applicable, and/or may be required to reforest the property where deemed necessary. The
following provisions shall apply:
(A) If protected trees are removed from the site, each tree shall constitute a separate
violation.
(B) When land has been cleared in violation of applicable upland preservation requirements,
mitigation, in the form of restoration, set aside of substitute native habitat, and/or payment of a fee
into the Conservation Trust Fund, shall be required. Mitigation shall be based on a 4:1 ratio: four
acres shall be mitigated for every one acre cleared. In lieu of paying a mitigation fee, the Planning
and Zoning Department may require that illegally removed vegetation be replanted where having a
vegetation buffer is vital to the public interest or the environment. The following provisions shall
apply to the reforestation of cleared areas:
(1) Vegetation.
Revised 2/14/2012 3:18 PM
(a) Trees. For every one acre of land, forty canopy trees that are the same or
similar to the native upland tree species found in the near vicinity shall be
provided. Two palm trees or understory trees may be substituted for one canopy
tree. Palm trees may be substituted for twenty percent or fewer of the canopy
trees and understory trees may be substituted for an additional 20 percent or
fewer of the canopy trees. One-third of the trees shall be at least 8, 12, and 14
feet in height respectively at the time of planting. All palms shall be at least 8
feet in clear trunk height.
(b) Shrubs. For every one acre of land, 200 shrubs that are the same or similar
to the native upland shrub species found in the near vicinity shall be provided.
Shrubs shall be at least two feet in height at the time of planting.
41

Common Name
(Species Name) Native
APPENDIX C: CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE APPROVED TREE LIST
Drought
Tolerance
APPROVED TREES – TYPE A
Frost
Tolerance
43
Mature
Size
(Ft.) H
X W Growth
Plant
Type Description
Bald Cypress Yes XX H 80'X25' M D Long lived tree.
Taxodium distichum
Golden Rain Tree No X H 30'X20' M D Yellow fall flowers, followed
Koelreuteria elegans by attractive orange seed pods.
Gumbo Limbo Yes XX* T 40'X35' F D Use closer to coast, smooth
Bursera simaruba reddish bark.
Holly, East Palatka Yes X H 30'X15' S E Requires acid soil.
Ilex attenuata
Jacaranda No XX* T 40'X50' M D
Extensive roots, flowers in
spring
Jacaranda acutifolia and summer.
Magnolia, Southern Yes XX* H 80'X40' M E
Flowering shade tree, requires
acid
Magnolia grandiflora soil.
Mango** No X T(25-30) 115'X33' F E Large edible fruit.
Mangifera indica
Maple, Red Yes / H 50'X30' F D Prefers wet soils.
Acer rubrum
Oak, Laurel Yes XX* H 80'X45' F E Wildlife value, short lived tree.
Quercus laurifolia
Oak, Live Yes XX* H 60'X40' M E Long lived tree.
Quercus virginiana
Palm, Bismark
Bismarckia nobilis
No XX* H
30' to
60' S P Massive fan palm
Palm, Canary Island Date No XX* H 40' S P Nutrient deficiencies, needs
Phoenix canariensis extra magnesium.
Palm, Edible date No XX* H 70' S P
Phoenix dactylifera
Palm, Florida Royal Yes XX* H 80' M P Prefer rich, moist soils
Roystonea regia =R. elata

APPENDIX C: CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE APPROVED TREE LIST
Pine, Slash Yes XX* H 100'X30' F E
Very sensitive to soil grade
changes
Pinus elliotii var. densa or compaction.
Red Cedar Yes XX* H 35'X25' F E Wildlife value.
Juniperus silicicola
Royal Poinciana No XX* T(28) 40'X40' M D Red-orange flowers in summer
Delonix regia
Sweetgum Yes XX* H 70'X40' F D
Glossy star-shaped leaves,
prickly
Liquidambar styraciflua fruit balls in fall.
Sycamore (Buttonwood) Yes XX* H 90'X60' F D Large leaves, long-lived.
Plantinus occidentalis
APPROVED TREES - TYPE B The following may be planted in clumps of two (2) and counted as one (1)
tree. The requirement may be reduced to one (1) tree when there is only space for a five foot landscape strip
around a building façade. Type B trees will count as one tree for single family and townhouse lots.
Common Name
(Species Name) Native
Drought
Tolerance
Frost
Tolerance
Mature
Size
(Ft.) H
X W Growth
Plant
Type Description
Avocado** No X T(28) 30'X25' S E Large edible fruit.
Persea amercicana
Buttonwood Yes XX* T(28) 35'X25' M E Variety 'sericea' -
Conocarpus erectus Silver Buttonwood - 25'X20'
Cherry Laurel Yes X H 25'X15' M E Poisonous to humans.
Prunus caroliniana
Crape Myrtle No XX* H 25'X15' M D Flowering Tree May to June.
Lagerstroemia indica
Elm, Chinese (Drake) No XX* H 20'X20' M E Weeping form.
Ulmus parvifolia
Golden Shower No X T 40'X35' M D Yellow flowers in summer.
Cassia fistula
Holly, Dahoon Yes XX* H 25'X15' M E Requires acid soil.
Ilex cassine
Hong Kong Orchid Tree No XX* H 30'X25' S E Pink-purple flowers all year.
Bauhina x blakeana
44

APPENDIX C: CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE APPROVED TREE LIST
Japanese Privet N XX* H 15'X20' M E
Ligustrum japonicum
Jerusalem Thorn No XX* H 20'X25' F D Yellow flowering tree March to
Parkinsonia aculeata May, thorns.
Loquat No XX* H 20'X15' F E Edible fruit.
Eriobotrya japonica
Palm, Cabbage
Sabal palmetto
Yes XX* H 40' S P
Palm, Chinese Fan No X H 25' S P
Livistona chenensis
Palm, Cliff Date No XX* H 25' S P
Phoenix rupicola
Long-lived tree. Florida state
tree.
Palm, Foxtail No XX* T(27) 30' F P
Tolerate a variety of welldrained
Wodyetia bifurcata soils
Palm, Pindo No XX* H 15' S P Wildlife value.
utia capitata
Palm, Washingtonia No XX* H 80' F P Becomes very tall.
Washingtonia robusta
Palm, Windmill (Chusan) No XX* H 25' S P
Trachycarpus fortunei
Silver Trumpet Tree No XX* T(28) 25'X15' M D Yellow flowers in Spring.
Tabebuia aurea = T. caraiba
Wax Myrtle (Bayberry) Yes XX* H 20' M E Multiple trunks.
Myrica cerifera
Required shrubs and ground cover shall be selected from the “Waterwise South Florida Landscapes” plant guide,
published by the South Florida Water Management District, as amended. The plant material must be
appropriate for the USDA plant hardiness zone.
LEGEND
Drought Tolerance High - (XX), Moderate - (X), None - ( / ), Approved for Xeriscaping - (XX*)
Growth Slow (S), Moderate (M), Fast (F)
Type Evergreen (E), Deciduous (D), Palm (P)
Frost Tolerance Hardy (H), Tender (T)
* Drought tolerance will vary depending on soil conditions and other environmental factors.
** This tree is only eligible to meet the requirements for single family houses.
45